The ruins before you are believed to be those of the Stoa Poikile, a collonaded building dating back to around 475-465 BC. In ancient Greek architecture, a stoa was a long building with columns, and the Stoa Poikile was adorned with Doric columns outside and Ionic columns within.
The building was named for the beautiful wooden panel paintings that adorned its walls soon after construction. These paintings, among the most famous in antiquity, depicted Athenian military triumphs, both mythical and historical. However, by 400 AD, a Roman proconsul had removed the paintings, and they no longer survived.
The Stoa Poikile was also famous as the classroom of the philosopher Zeno, who came to Athens around 300 BC. He and his followers, known as the Stoics, regularly met here.
Behind the Stoa Poikile is a shop building that was originally built around 420 BC and was used until the 5th century AD, with alterations. Both the Stoa Poikile and the shops were abandoned by the 6th century, and their remains were covered by a neighbourhood of houses and shops dating from the 10th to the 12th centuries AD.
The area is part of the Ancient Athenian Agora, excavated in 1931 by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens in cooperation with the Hellenic Ministry of Culture's Ephorate of Antiquities of Athens. Funding for the excavation comes from private American sources, notably the Packard Humanities Institute.
Athens has a rich history and vibrant culture, and a walking tour is a perfect way to experience its many sights and sounds. A one-day walking tour in Athens could start at the Acropolis, visiting the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, two of the city's most iconic landmarks. From there, you can stroll down to the Greek Agora, where you can rest and enjoy a cup of coffee and some local cheese at a small cafe, soaking in the sun and the atmosphere of this historic neighbourhood.
Next, you can head to the flea market and street markets in the Monastiraki neighbourhood. This area is known for its bustling street vendors and street performers, and it's a great place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts. You can take a break from the crowds and sample some delicious pastries at a local patisserie.
Afterwards, you can head to Syntagma Square, where you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This is a unique and fascinating tradition that is a must-see for anyone visiting Athens.
As the day turns into night, you can experience the city's vibrant nightlife by visiting some of the popular bars and tavernas in the town. Athens is famous for its nightlife, and there are plenty of bars and tavernas to choose from, offering a variety of music and drinks to suit all tastes.
Finally, to end your day, you can visit one of the city's best restaurants and enjoy a delicious meal with local wines and live music. This is the perfect way to cap off a day of sightseeing and exploring in Athens, surrounded by the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
